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What You Need to Know About Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

What causes carpal tunnel syndrome?

Do you find yourself checking your hands every now and then because you feel as if you can’t even life your cup of coffee due to weakness? You may need to get yourself checked as this may be a sign that you have carpal tunnel syndrome. So, what exactly is carpal tunnel syndrome? Also known as median nerve compression, carpal tunnel syndrome happens when there is pressure being felt to your median nerve. This goes along the entire length of your arm, passing through what is known as the carpal tunnel in your wrist. This ends at your hand. Why is the median nerve important? The median nerve is in charge of controlling movement and feeling that you experience in your thumb. It also controls the movement in your fingers, with the exception of your pinky finger. When one has carpal tunnel syndrome, you may feel weakness, numbness, or a tingling sensation in your hand. To learn more about carpal tunnel syndrome, consult with the experts at Diligent Urgent Care.

How do you know if you have carpal tunnel syndrome?

There are a number of signs that you should watch out for to know if you have carpal tunnel syndrome. Once you have any of the mentioned symptoms, it is best that you get yourself checked right away by a medical health practitioner, so as to lessen its effects. Before we get to know the symptoms, we must first know what causes carpal tunnel syndrome. Carpal tunnel syndrome is caused by a number of factors such as diabetes, obesity, rheumatoid arthritis, hypothyroidism. It may also be caused by repetitive motions that affect your wrists’ movement such as typing. Pregnancy is also another factor that causes carpal tunnel syndrome. As previously mentioned, carpal tunnel syndrome happens when there is pressure to your median nerve. This may lead to the lessening of the coordination, feeling, and strength in your fingers, especially in your usage of your thumb. This can also lead to slower nerve impulses. With carpal tunnel syndrome, you may experience problems gripping things and you may experience a feeling akin to a shock-like sensation traveling to your fingers. Are you feeling these signs and symptoms? Get immediate medical attention with Diligent Urgent Care. Consult with them today.

What tests are done to diagnose carpal tunnel syndrome?

A test called Tinel sign may be done to check on whether you have carpal tunnel syndrome or not. Your medical practitioner may also do a test by tapping the palm side of your wrist, or you may be asked to extend your arms and flex your wrists fully. Other tests that may be done to check for carpal tunnel syndrome are nerve conduction studies, which is characterized by measuring the signals in the nerves of your arm and hand by taping electrodes to your skin. Another test is through electromyogram, which is the measure of the electrical activity by inserting a thin electrode into a muscle. Imaging tests may also be done to assess your bones and tissues, such as MRI exams, ultrasounds, or x-rays. If you have or are experiencing any of the symptoms that may indicate that you have carpal tunnel syndrome, have yourself checked with Diligent Urgent Care.

Is there a way to treat carpal tunnel syndrome?

The good news is, carpal tunnel syndrome is treatable. However, note that the treatment that may be applied to you may depend on the progression of your condition, as well as the severity of the symptoms that you are experiencing. You may need to make changes with your lifestyle, such as taking it easy on any activity that may cause you to be in pain. Doing exercises can also help you feel much better, most especially doing nerve gliding exercises or movements that help with strengthening or stretching. Medication is also a must for your speedy recovery. You may also need to use a splint to prevent movement, or for severe cases, surgery may be required already. Know more about carpal tunnel syndrome treatment at Diligent Urgent Care. Check out their website for more information.

Have exceptional medical care in Union City, NJ with Diligent Urgent Care!

Are you in need of immediate medical care? Then, Diligent Urgent Care is the one for you! At Diligent Urgent care, you are given exceptional medical care without the hassle of waiting so long for your turn to get treated. You also would not have to worry about your ER bill ballooning to big amounts. At Diligent Urgent Care, some of the services that they offer are speedy treatments and consultations for common illnesses and injuries, lab tests and screenings, occupational medicine services, and vaccinations. To know more about the services that they offer, click over to their website for more information. You may also reach them for any inquiries and concerns through the contact information listed in their website. Choose Diligent Urgent Care, your convenient one-stop solution for your healthcare in different areas covered in New Jersey!